#HoYo you spoil us....

[blazingblorbos]

GAY PEOPLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[luvuomi]

and everyone cried

[edgeray]

Hi Ray! 🍅 Anon here~

Have fun on your holiday and enjoy it to the best you can! Be sure to stay hydrated, the weather is really mental these days.

Just wanted to share a bit of brainrot I had regarding soft Arle, whether or not you choose to make it into a fic is up to you!

Arle with her frame and demeanor is most definitely the Top + Dom in the relationship with reader, but how about when she’s insecure? Seeing reader take care of the children and feeling as though she doesn’t deserve to be as loved as said children, then reader after putting the kids to bed embraces Arle and puts her head against their chest so Arle can hear their heartbeat more clearly while patting Arle and assuring her that they love her for her and that she DEFINITELY deserves to be spoilt… (reader knows Arle too well to not pick up on her tells and knows that Arle’s being harsh on herself)

Or maybe reader writing in to the Tsaritsa (without Arle knowing) to ask if Arle can take a 2 week break just to take care of the children and spend time as a couple (What if!! Tsaritsa was the one who wed them!!! And just closes both eyes and approves time off). Then reader proceeds to spoil Arle in every way possible - breakfast in bed, a warm bath after sparring with the children (no, not that kind of bath, but a fluffy one where Arle gets a shoulder massage and scrubbed clean and gets lots of loving kisses everywhere she’s insecure of), a feast of sashimi and steak tartare for dinner and a soft bed and loving wife in the night. I wanna spoil Arle like that but 😭

Oh! And since Harbingers are like celebrities in Snezhnaya, do you think Arle would have a fanclub there? Think about it! She’s young, has a boatload of money (you CANNOT convince me #4 doesn’t have money when #11 has an unimaginable sum at the bank), can handle kids well (she runs the HotH), and as a Harbinger who fights she probably is ripped (RIP her actual body proportions, they’re limited by Hoyo’s models, nobody is convincing me her body type isn’t like Lady Maria’s from Bloodborne, with abs, guns and muscular. Thighs.)

0 chance that she doesn’t have a line of sapphics lining up for her in Snezhnaya, even with the rumors of her being ruthless and cruel (I mean. If the rumors worked in making people back off. Arle simps like us wouldn’t exist to begin with lmao)… Imagine Arle trying to placate Jealous!Teasing!Reader!! Like Arle coming home on Valentine’s day a bit late to find reader teasing her about having a new lover meanwhile Arle was actually out buying a new dagger for reader to protect themselves with… reader being melodramatic because she knows and trusts Arle enough that Arle would never do anything like that (and Arle knows but plays along)

R: “Oh, woe is me! My wife came home late on Valentine’s with a dagger to end our relationship, whatever should I do?”

Arle: “My love…”

And if the children are around? They’d be busy either pretending they didn’t see anything or resisting the urge to claw their eyes out or handing each other eye bleach. Sending condolences to Lyney when one of the younger children ask something along the lines of

“Brother Lyney, do you think we’ll have another sibling soon if Father and Mother are this loving with each other”

(I headcanon that Arle does teach them sexuality education but not until they’re 10 and before that the older children tell their younger siblings that children pop into existence when Papa and Mama love each other lots)

I’m so sorry this is getting really out of hand but Arle has me in a brainrot when I should be focusing elsewhere 💀

Rest Your Worries, Lax Your Heart

(Arlecchino x GN! Reader)

A/N - Thank you, I did have a fun vacation :). Wow that is a lot and I love every single bit of this ask 🍅 anon. It'd be unfair if I just wrote one part and not all of them, so what did I do? Combined all of them as best as I can, but of course some details had to be omitted/changed because of that–hopefully you don't mind. I'm a fucking genius. Also considering that Arle has an anime, but never got a beach episode, this is said beach episode. This took so long because this turned out to be pretty self-indulgent (I'm sure you know which scene it was). This is a long boi, way over what the request range is supposed to be, but hope this is worth it? Somehow, my brain was able to focus for at least like… 4 hours. Started this at 23:00 something, and it's nearly 04:00. 🍅 anon, I enjoy your asks, so I hope you personally enjoy this one :)  Content warnings / info - a bit of suggestiveness, reader is referred to as ‘Mother’ but is otherwise gn!, 3.2k words 

It took a lot of back and forth over the span of four months, writing to the Tsaritsa, but you had finally been able to arrange this without the knowledge of your husband. The Archon, generous as she is, approved of your proposal for a two week long break without much pushback or questioning, saying that loyalty was rewarded and as one of her more productive Harbingers, Arlecchino’s efforts warrant her a break. All the Tsaritsa asked for was the general details of the vacation: when, where, and the activities you would be doing, which was easy enough to answer to. Surprisingly, she bought an entire section of the Sumeru coast along with a sizable cabin for the two of you and the children for the duration of your respite when you told where you plan on the location being. You're not one to turn down such a gracious offer so you accepted it. As a Pyro user, she would surely enjoy somewhere as warm as Sumeru. 

Currently, you're holding the letter from the Tsaritsa, which contains a direct order from the Archon addressed to Arlecchino to stay at Sumeru. No matter how much you plead for her to rest, your husband only says that she can keep working and for you to not worry. Tracing the envelope stamp, you breathe in deeply before knocking on the door.

“Yes?” Called from beyond the door. 

“Can I come in, Arle?”

“Yes, my love,” she says with a lilt. 

You come in, striding towards her, holding up the back of the envelope while trying to suppress your smile. “This was addressed for you.”

Arlecchino takes it with a bit of suspicion at the crack in your facial expression. Turning it over, she notices the stamp, which is the mark of the word of the Archon. She narrows her brows and takes out a letter opener, taking out the letter with a bit more urgency. You watch her expression morph from confusion to mild shock to indifference again. 

“What does it say?” You inquire her, biting your lip to hide the smile.

“It says that I'm going to Sumeru in three days. For a respite.” She eyes you carefully, her eyes glinting red. “But you seem to know that already.” 

You nod, a smile forming . “I thought… you were working so hard, and you deserve a break. I asked the Tsaritsa if it was possible and she agreed to it, even paying for our stay there.” 

Arlecchino's face flicks to something indecipherable, like there was a hesitation, but it quickly disappears before you can think too much on it. She gets up from her desk chair, strutting to you before wrapping her arms around your midsection, pulling you into an embrace. She presses a tender kiss against your forehead. “Thank you, my dear, for your thinking of me. I'm sure the children would appreciate being out of the House. I'll tell the children about this, and we should begin packing.”  

But does she appreciate it? It's for her, after all. You chew on the inside of your cheek but your smile remains in place.

You tilt your head up to kiss her cheek. “I already packed for us. And I told the kids, already.”

“Hm, that's why they seem so antsy lately. Thank you,” Arlecchino hums. “You picked for us already?”

“Yes. Including your clothes,” you chuckle, deviously imagining her in the attires you picked out for her. At that, she raises her eyebrows.

“Oh? What are you planning, my love?” She teases, seizing your chin in her hands and tilting your head up to lock her eyes with yours. You can't stop the giggle that bubbles out. 

“Nothing too… scandalous…” you answer back. “Don't worry, it's nothing too bad. This is all for you to relax, remember? You've been working so hard, been such a good husband, so…”

You lean forward to kiss her on the mouth. Whispering against her lips, you say, “As your partner, it's my duty to make sure you're happy. Isn't that right?”

If she physically could at that moment, Arlecchino would melt underneath your words. 

—

Upon your arrival at Sumeru, you were glad you picked the outfits that you did. Travel with around twenty kids was difficult, but luckily the older kids, the twins and Freminet especially, helped a lot. Everyone was practically vibrating in excitement, with the exception of Arlecchino, though you knew it was mostly because of how inexpressive she usually was. 

Right? 

Currently, the two of you lay on the sand by the crystal clear waters, enjoying the sight of the children playing. The little ones are playing in the sand, presumably sculpting a castle, and the older ones are either engaging in a heated battle involving smacking a ball around or with Freminent in the ocean. Here, you forget that they’re a part of the Fatui, child soldiers for the Tsaritsa; here, they look like normal children and it makes your heart swell. 

Unfortunately, you're stuck in a dilemma–observe your children and take in their contagious laughter, or ogle your husband who is in the most delicious and mouth-watering attire possible. Underneath her short gray collarless jacket, was a cropped, sleeveless turtleneck that exposed her lower half of her toned stomach, including her v-line. Below are tight, black leggings which do little in hiding her muscular thighs. Everytime you look at her, a flush runs to your cheeks and you find yourself too flustered for your stare to linger because of the growing amount of indecent thoughts. You breathe deeply in an attempt to calm the raging storms of desire in your stomach, distracting yourself by observing the waves and digging your feet in the sand. For the sake of your children, you'd like for your mind to be as pure as possible. 

Blackened arms wrap around your waist, pulling you into a lap. You squeal at the sudden contact. Your husband's mouth hovers beside your ear, hot breath brushing against the shell of your ear. 

“Something interesting?” Arlecchino huskily whispers, making you shudder. One hand strokes over your stomach, invoking shivers from you. You inhale sharply before glancing at Arlecchino's face. 

“Just… watching the waves. It's calming,” you lie quickly, wondering if your racing heartbeat can be felt underneath her fingertips. 

“Your heart says otherwise,” she chuckles, turning your head over your shoulder so she can kiss you. 

After a few moments, you pull away from the kiss, and your eyes flick over to the children in the sand, still tossing around that ball over a net. “Why don't you join them? I'm sure they would love it if their Father joined their game.”

“My dear, I would destroy them,” Arlecchino bluntly remarks, and you chuckle. 

“Fair enough, I suppose.”

The two of you watch them in silence until Arlecchino breaks the silence. 

“I like what you picked for me.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Your reaction is adorable.” 

Something white-hot pricks the back of your neck. “I-I'm glad you like it. I like it too,” you stammer out, your abashment evident in your voice. 

“I can tell. Perhaps… you'd like to help me put on sun protection?” Arlecchino teases with a small smirk, removing her jacket off to reveal her lean biceps. “Over the pants, if that's alright.”

This handsome–sexy–woman is going to be the death of you, you’re sure of it. Your heart is going into overdrive, and you would be terrified of going into a stroke if you aren't more focused on your husband's physique. If it's not your heart that's going to kill you, it's the pending combustion inside of you. You squeeze your thighs against one another, pooling heat forming between your legs. 

“Y-yeah, sure,” you manage in between your laboring breathing, getting off of her lap to face her. Spreading the paste in your hand, you first venture over her neck, tenderly rubbing over her throat and then her nape, down to her sides. Her skin is hot to the touch, as expected of a Pyro user, but it somehow retains softness and flawlessness despite all the combat and harshness your husband deals with as a Fatui Harbinger. Still, unlike her composed facial features, you can feel that her pulse is as frenzied as yours–it gives you comfort that you’re not the only one feeling this. Your husband hums with contentment, watching you carefully. 

Next, you slide your hands over to her broad shoulders before feeling down her upper arm, deliberate attention to her biceps. A shuddering breath comes from you as she shifts, extending her arms more out towards you. You trace down the markings of her arm before caressing her inky elbow and forearms. Finally, you get to her wrists. An idea pops in your head as you bring her hands to your lips, kissing her knuckles and rings, giving special focus onto her engagement ring. An amused huff escapes from her, and you glance back at her. Her eyes gleam with such a rare fondness, reserved only for you. 

You glance down at the only part of her that's yet been touched, your stomach churning in itself when you're able to get a closer, longer look. You gulp considerably, your hands shaking slightly as they hover over it. 

A charcoal hand wraps around your wrist, gently guiding your palm to her until it's flushed against her skin. “Don't be shy now, love.” She smirks wickedly and you have the sense to kiss that smile off her face. 

“Shut up,” you murmur meekly, but place both hands on her stomach, your fingertips traversing over every dips created by her well-muscles stomach. It feels like your body will implode at any second now, as her body heat infects your fingers and spreads to the rest of your body. You coat her waist before your touch lingers lower, just above the waistband of her pants. You trace the indent of her v-line, your fingers nearly dip underneath her leggings. Before it can, she stops you, grasping both of your wrists with one hand as she leans in to whisper hotly near your ear.

“Let's save that for later, hm?” 

—

“Lyney, what are they doing?” One of the children inquires, as they point at Mother and Father still by the water. Father remains on top of Mother, seemingly applying sun protection, though Lyney isn't quite sure if their position is truly that… innocent. 

“Oh… Father is just helping Mother, like how I helped with the sun protection on your back,” Lyney quickly comes up with an explanation, looking away from them. 

The child remains silent, observing the older male's expression, before looking back at them once more. “Lyney, you said that when a mother and father love each other a lot, a new child comes right?” 

Lyney isn't sure if he was going to enjoy what comes next, though he has an inkling that he won't. “Yes…” 

“Does that mean Mother and Father will bring us a new sibling soon?”

Lyney sputters, looking to Lynette for assistance. 

—

After a nice day at the beach, Arlecchino takes you and the children to a local restaurant. Luckily, she was able to find one that was relatively empty, so there was no problem with fitting you and your twenty children inside. You find that the two of you rather enjoy Sumeru dishes; while you enjoy the variety of flavors, Arlecchino rather indulges in the spiciness of them. Your favorite is between the tandoori roast chicken and the lambad fish roll. Though, something bothers you during your time at the restaurant.

Arlecchino is an attractive woman; that much is undeniable, and you're well aware of the fact that she's pleasing to both men's and women's eyes. It is a common occurrence for her to attract the sights of those around her, for whatever the reason, though among the women, it is typically out of admiration. Here, this is the case as well, wandering eyes from other customers, and subtle flirting from the audacious waitress. 

After finishing your dinner, you excuse yourself to the bathroom, only to return to the two of them chatting up, although in reality it’s more like a one-sided conversation and Arlecchino is ignoring her– you're well aware of this, but you find the waitress’ presence pervasive. You approach your table quickly, kissing your husband on the cheek before glancing at the waitress.

“My husband and I would like to order dessert. Can you fetch us a menu, please?” You ask, disguising your ire with a practiced smile. Instantly, the waitress's flirtation dies and she walks away. 

You huff at the sight of the woman. “How could you, Arlecchino? After all we've been through? Talking so casually with her when I'm gone?” You jest with a gasp, faux jealousy in your tone once you notice the relieved sigh from her. Her claws release its hold on the tablecloth, leaving behind tattered sheets. 

“Oh, how I've been caught,” Arlecchino responds monotonously, playing along. “My affair with an unnamed, rather plain-featured woman has been discovered.” 

You giggle as her hand finds yours, interlocking with your fingers. “I'm in disbelief, betrayed by who I thought was my true love.”

“Oh hush now, love. Will Baklava buy your silence and heart again?” 

“Perhaps.” 

The House of the Hearth children gag as Mother and Father conciliate. 

—

“Mother, can't we stay up any longer? We're on vacation. Pleaseeeeee,” one of the children pleads as you usher them to bed, pulling the covers over them. 

“It's not healthy for you to stay up. Besides, you have plenty of time tomorrow and the rest of the two weeks to have fun. Your Father and I can't keep watch over you during the night,” you respond with, kissing them on the forehead. 

“What if Lyney or Lynette watches us?” 

“Lyney and Lynette are probably just as tired. When you wake up, we can go to the beach again, does that sound okay?” 

“Okay… good night Mother.”

You hum in delight, caressing their head. “Good night. Sweet dreams.” 

You silently walk towards the door. Arlecchino leans against the doorframe, observing you wordlessly–again, that unreadable expression appears over her, but this time it lingers. You shut the door as quietly as you can, before turning to your husband.

“Is there something you need, Arle?” You inquire. 

She shakes her head. You don't quite believe her, but you don't address it. “I'm going to go take a bath. Get all this sand off of me. Would you like to join me?” 

Arlecchino nods, and soon the two of you are in the bathroom. You let the faucet run, filling the bathtub with water as Arlecchino removes her clothing. It only takes a few moments before the two of you are seated in the bathtub, but it's a change of position this time. Arlecchino sits in between your legs, facing away from you.

“It's been a while since we've bathed like this, right?” You question softly, lightly carding your fingers through her untied hair. 

“It has been,” she merely replies, her voice almost far-away; like there’s something else on her mind. Even though you only face her back, you can tell from her lack of movement that she’s in deep contemplation.

“What are you thinking about, Arle?” Your husband bristles a bit at the question. Even after being married to you for a couple years, she's still unaccustomed to how you can read her so easily, especially when she prides herself in being incomprehensible to others, even her children. 

“Do you… not enjoy this?” You ask hesitantly with a lump in your throat. You know that she knows what you meant by ‘this’– the vacation; the entire notion of taking a break is foreign to Arlecchino, but you hope that she was able to find this beneficial. If she hates this and this vacation is supposed to be two weeks long… you don't want to say you'd be disappointed but you'd hope she'd at least be able to relax from her Harbinger duties. 

Arlecchino is silent for a few moments. “I admit… I am uneased by this, to be so vulnerable and open to assaults now that we're not in the House of the Hearth. I feel unproductive and restless without my usual work. However, at the same time, I can see how beneficial this is to the children, and it is a nice change for once to see them like this. Being able to spend time with you like this is also rather indulgent, but I cannot complain about it.” 

You smile, a weight lifted off your chest as you lean forward to press a kiss against her nape. “I’m glad. This was for you after all.”

“Although I am gratified that the children are able to experience this as well … I cannot see why you would put this much effort for me. After all, I am…” Arlecchino pauses, raising her blackened hands to her view. She doesn’t finish her sentence, but you're able to get a sense of what she’s trying to say, and another weight is placed heavy on your heart. For as confident and assured that Arlecchino likes to present herself, when it is just the two of you, she reveals a rawer, more unguarded side to her. Often, she confides in you how she grapples with why you can so fondly view her, and every time, your heart sinks. How could your husband think this way? 

Laying your chin over her shoulder, you gingerly place both of your hands underneath hers, stroking the inside of her palm with your thumb. “I know where your thoughts are leading to, Arlecchino, and they're wrong. I love you, Arlecchino. You deserve this. You deserve this treatment, you deserve a break, you deserve to be loved. Your curse, your past… it doesn't matter. These hands…” 

You continue caressing her hand with your fingers. “...They are not cursed. These hands are not unloveable. These are the same hands that protect and care for our children. The same hands that hold me. The same hands that please me. They are a part of you, and they aren't evidence that you are a monster. If you are, you wouldn't have me, and you wouldn't have the children.” 

You kiss down along her bare back, gaining shivers from the woman. “Enjoy this, my love, for me at the very least. You are my husband, so let me do my part in loving you. You've done an innumerable amount of things for me and the children, so consider this to be our repayment for you.” 

“That is why I am doing this for you, do you understand?” You whisper against her skin. 

Arlecchino nods, a shaky breath escaping from her. You finish your treatment around her shoulderblades and gesture for her to turn around. When she does, the first thing that you do is kiss her hands, peppering them with as much devotion as you can give them. To you, nothing is more beautiful. 

“You deserve everything and more. Don't forget that, Arlecchino. So let me do this for you.” It isn't an ask. It is a demand from the one person whose authority is higher than the Tsaritsa: you. 

Arlecchino closes her eyes, and lets herself melt into you. 

[moni-harmonia]

....

Ok before talking about the whole Act II in general I just wanna talk about that Kaeya and Diluc scene.

BECAUSE MY HEART.

I thought it would be just a small conversation and we’re gone. But it was so much more!

First this line by Kaeya. This is a festival where people go back home and that’s what he’s doing and has no remorse about saying it! And it’s the first time we’re seeing Kaeya INSIDE the manor

He tries to convince Diluc to help them, and it’s funny because his tricks don’t work of him (of course not, he’s too used to them), but he still convinces him either way lol. Hard to say no to your bro (and the Traveler I guess)

BUT THEN COMES THE BEST PART

Diluc actually proposes that Kaeya stays to have a meal with him. DILUC TAKES A HUGE STEP HERE. Kaeya’s so awkward, he tries so hard to say no, but then comes Adelinde and she ends up convincing him!!

(I love you Adelinde, thank you so much)

I CAN’T BELIEVE IT, KAEYA DOESN’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY. I’ve never seen him like this. This is a new side of him and I. Love. This. Diluc even teases him because it’s so rare.

THEY ACTUALLY HAVE A MEAL TOGETHER IN THE SAME TABLE

And then Kaeya leaves in a hurry, while Diluc is left pondering about... family...

Damn Hoyo, you’re spoiling me I swear. I thought they would just have a small dialogue but this is so important. SO IMPORTANT.

Kaeya goes home, they talk to each other like normal and they eat together. What more can I ask for!? But my favourite part is that it’s Diluc the one who wants that, he actually left Kaeya speechless (and myself too). I thought Kaeya would just make an excuse and leave but they convince him to stay 😭 He’s so freaking stubborn, they’re very similar in that way

This feels so great, Hoyo’s been spot on with the ragbros recently

[walpu]

when ur done with the main story i'd love to hear your thoughts on it! (I'm only half way done rn tho ....)

Hi!!

So. I've just finished the quest. Hoyo got me good ngl. Sorry if it's bit messy I'm still in shambles

Spoilers for v.21 bellow!!!

So happy Aven is alive like literally so relieved. I was so anxious about it I started worrying I won't be able to work tomorrow if something happens to him lmao.

I was very happy that the way I characterize Aven in my head played out in the game but at the same time I was low-key devastated.

It was nice to see that he can be playful and a bit silly, like when he and Ratio were solving puzzles and getting on each other's nerves. It was also nice to see that his masks slips easier and more often than I thought. Honestly everything about him is just so peak fiction like he's cunning and low-key manipulative but he's also very sentimental, he says the end justifies the meaning and says that betrayal is a tool he can use but he actually refuses to sacrifice others and says that he considers it to be a dirty game. Like he's soooooooooo

Also "future" Aventurine. Evil shadow self lmao. He was fascinating because on one hand he low-key represents Aventurine's mask. However he also represents the pent up negative emotions and thoughts he has towards himself. Which is cool because I mean who knows what hides underneath the mask better than the mask itself.

I'm happy he started his journey to self acceptance thought. Like to be honest I'm very satisfied with the way his arc was written. Hated to see him in pain but it's cool they gave him the space to be broken and vulnerable in front of the player, addressed his past and how it affects him.

Topaz was surprisingly nice when talking about him I thought she can't stand his ass. She did sound sad when talking about him "dying" so I presume she DOES care. And so does Ratio!!!!! I hope hoyo will explore Aven's relationships with them and his arc will lead to him realizing that there are people who care about him regardless of his status.

Outside of Aven's arc. I like the way Sunday was written. We didn't spend much time with him but I feel like they did the most out of it like you can see what kind of person he is. Obviously there's more to learn but still. That being said, I can't stand his ass 😭 He gave me the ick during his scene with Sparkle and after 2.1 I don't think I'll find it in myself to ever like him but we'll see, after all I was sure I won't like Aven since he works for the IPC but here we are.

And about the final twist. Yeah. Didn't see tgat coming and thanks god I didn't spoil it for myself. That being said, I don't think Gallagher would actually kill someone, so I think the angelic siblings will be fine.

Also. Aven's boss form is sexy af I was staring at him and his little slutty waist when Luocha decided to intervene with his "what is it we're waiting for? 🙄🙄🙄" Like??? Boy be quite??????

[genshinconfessions]

Honest to god, the more I see people behaving like actual monsters or children throwing a temper tantrum over characters not having skin as black as the abyss the more I flat out just do not have the capacity to care. I get it sucks that the characters aren't being diverse enough, I get it, but throwing death threats, slurs and god knows what else at the devs while behaving like spoiled rotten brats just makes me not care to any degree. If people can't behave like ACTUAL ADULTS and genuinely have polite points to say other than "Time to attack the devs again/slander the VAs or whoever for agreeing to go with this" whenever a character isn't dark skinned, they have no one to blame but themselves if the devs elect to not listen to what basically amounts to spoiled two year olds not getting what they want. I genuinely feel bad for people who want more diversity but are less hateful and end up being lumped in with the assholes who think threatening the devs lives is a okay, and I also feel bad for anyone genuinely excited about the Natlan characters getting absolutely harassed and ripped to shreds for not "thinking they're ugly for not being dark enough". I feel like if the fan base were ALOT LESS VITRIOLIC about the issue of diversity the devs would likely listen more. But as it stands now I can't wait for the harassing and death threats being thrown around to die down again so I can actually browse genshin twit and tumblr again in peace without having to worry about running into anyone being genuine human trash towards the devs over the color of fucking pixels. I've got enough stressing me out like grieving the loss of a parent, I don't need people being assholes to add to it and it sickens me that they don't see anything wrong with how they're acting. I'm just. I'm tired and wish people could be less like bullies or arseholes for once over a silly little gacha game they claim to love yet act like this. Sorry for this being a long confession, I just needed to get this off my chest cause it's been bugging me and stressing me out so much since the Natlan teaser got released whenever I've gone to look at Genshin stuff practically everywhere lately.....

i'm very sorry for your loss :( and if it will help you feel less alone, i generally agree with your sentiments.

for me, i am a pretty staunch hoyo defender (evident in previous posts when we used to comment on asks more frequently), but i must admit, i was slightly disappointed in the natlan characters since i believed the fan edits with darker skin did look better, and i wished hoyo would have listened to the intl fandom regarding south american/african/indigenous poc things.

that said, it's never okay to send death threats to anyone for any reason. i'm sure the devs are a lot less willing to make changes if all they're getting is death threats and, like you said, vitriolic hate. constructive criticism helps ppl realize where they're wrong and how to fix it; unconstructive criticism is generally useless and tends to be ignored.

the societal issue of colorism runs very, very deep, both in asia and generally around the world. it's not something that hoyo can fix singlehandedly by changing some characters. granted, i'm sure it would set a very good example for future game devs, and it would be really great if they did listen to intl feedback! but if they choose not to, that's not smth we can change their minds about.

side note, regarding a lot of the 'natlan is colonized' comments, we don't know the story yet. it's possible that hoyo will address it as social commentary, or it might be something totally different. leaks and the search for instant gratification have really made it difficult for people to enjoy a drawn-out storyline, and that's really sad.

we've said this a lot on this page but i'll say it again: why spend so much energy hating fictional media? if it no longer brings you joy for whatever reason (i.e. you dislike the natlan characters), stop playing. if the fandom is the main source of negativity, stop engaging with the fandom, block users and tags, curate your own experience. if you claim to hate everything about it but continue to engage with it, that's quite hypocritical and unconvincing.

in any case, if you like the game well enough to keep playing, keep playing. you don't need to justify your reasoning to anyone, and you definitely don't need to fall into a trap of radicalized (and dare i say often performative) social justice.

[the-sayuri-rin]

Periodic trying to understand hoyoverse's train of thought:

With the release of the Fontaine Arc, we further explored and expanded the concept of Descenders and Dragon Sovereigns lore that we had gotten in earlier arcs/patches. Mainly, their "wills" and "authorities" (dragon's) today I want to learn more about "wills".

A Descender(s) will and how they are classifed:

"...

"Lies beneath the great sea" is, itself, an interesting phrase. It comes from ancient Sumeru texts, and should be read as "Narayana," which also means "primordial human." This, too, is my goal, for not all that comes from beyond may be as one that "descends." That title belongs only to wills that can rival an entire world. That is what I seek, the way to become just such a will, one that can protect the world, sustain the world, destroy the world, and create the world."

-Narzissenkruez Ordo Notes

" No, I have noticed. Have you always been in that realm that I pursue? O, you who are equal to a world!" - Narzissenkruez during battle

"Not everything from outside the universe can be called a "presence" or "variable." But it seems I overlooked one nonetheless. You. The witness of all, the recorder of all, the designer of all. Only one who is worth a world can bear that title." - Narzissenkruez after the battle

"I see." The person who almost saved the world spoke: "The Holy Blade need not be a sword. It could even be a gold-haired outlander." - Narzissenkruez after sealing the Primordial sea

Question to Hoyo veterans (IF WHAT I AM ASKING REQUIRES THAT YOU SPOIL ANYTHING -I AM STILL IN THE EARLY STAGES OF HI3 FOR EXAMPLE- JUST GIVE EITHER EXERMLY VAUGE ANSWER OR GO "HMM") IDK IF HSR has anything about "wills" yet since A) It's still new and B) I dropped the game, so IF they do you can spoil THAT game for me if you want. Also, you can also tell me about GGZ lore since A) I have no way to play that game and B) I'm curious about it:

Since Hoyo and their... well "hoyoverse" likes to use the same or similar ideas in different games for each of their games/worlds, have they talked about will in any of their other games? Have they tied "wills" to worlds and their fates before?

[gold-rhine]

For the bodypart canons askgame can we get Neuvillette? If you don't have much about him yet then I wanna be the first one to ask for Kaeya

I already did for Neuvi! In fact its easier for him bc he just came out, so i have a lot of things to extrapolate from, but I was writing long ass essays for kaeya for more than a year, so its harder to come up with anything new to say asdfghj. like i don't to repeat same headcanons i already wrote, like that he's related to candace

Headcanon: I can muster a cogent argument for why it would make more sense or make for a better story if this were the case

i've gotta say, i'm a bit peeved when i see ppl portraying child kaeya as like. a dickensian beggar boy who was let to the fireplace and cried bc he tried a cube of sugar for the first time in his life. like, alberichs are nobility and we know khaenriah took their nobility *very* seriously. and if they knew they are sending their scion to mond's nobility, they'd make damn sure he can keep up their dignity. kaeya canonically could read and write before he got to mond and game makes sure to highlight that his handwriting is beautiful.

i think kaeya was very well educated, very well schooled and mannered and prepared for like high society politics, and it was kind of a cultural shock for him how uncivilized ragnyvdirs are in comparison to his own upbringing. like he's a bit confused when he doesn't see 10 different forks at the dinner table, but he's keeping a brave face, but then he sees diluc wipe his mouth with a sleeve and like snatch a piece of meat from the dish and is just completely stunned. and diluc is like oh don't be shy, you can have more too if you want!, but kaeya is in fact seeing a heart attack his own father would have at this scene. this is why he comes off as very quiet and polite to all adults at the estate

Heartcanon: I don’t have a particular rationale for why this ought to be the case, I just like to imagine it’s true because it gives me the warm fuzzies

my conspiracy theory headcanon is that he does still have his horse, but doesn't use her for work. like when he just became a knight as a teen, he saw a horse that no one wanted or ever chose bc she had horrible temper, and slowly gained her trust with treats and attention until they've became friends like a true horsegirl would. that horse was left in mond bc she doesn't let anyone else ride her, so the expedition just left her to kaeya, but he just treats her like a luxury pet and spoils her to death

Gutcanon: it’s not that I actively want this to be the case – it just unaccountably feels like it should be

the first ability from his vision that ever activated was his C4 shield when diluc cleaved him on the head and this is what saved his life. this shield is v useful, but kaeya hates it as a reminder. he also has pretty big burnscar on his eye, bc like. he took a flaming claymore to the eye, no way he has a dainty little white line from a hit like that

Junkcanon: I like to imagine it’s true because it gives me the other kind of warm fuzzies

has a collection of corsets and elaborate lingerie sets. like, you open the corset on his default outfit and there is another, even sexier corset underneath

Spleencanon: I insist that this is the case specifically to spite the author, because, like, fuck you, sir or madam

every time hoyo tries to gaslight us into pretending diluc was right and in fact normal about kaeya and the knights the whole time, i'm sending psychic spiders to them on the astral plane

[actualbird]

Luke and marius 3rd anniv cards... hoyo knows we need those men tied up and teased...I cant pick which of them I want more...

(On another note, vyn Get Off the Piano. You are going to damage the keys. Piano sex is hot but also you will damage it)

hoyo knows and wanted to spoil us marius and luke enjoyers who also enjoy seeing those men TIED UP!!!!!

vyn on the piano is very beautiful but yeah it also makes me laugh because geT OFF THAT THING, DOC!!!! plus, the perspective of the shot for vyn's makes me wonder where the Hell mc is. is she...is she standing on a chair looking down at him? is she hanging from the chandelier? many questions

[glitterguts13]

Dr Ratio/Aventurine/Sunday with pregnant Aventurine, with all three trying to do right by each other and their baby after everything that went down in the Penacony storyline (I don't know how it'll end but let's just pretend everything works out)

It's been a week and I still haven't emotionally recovered from 2.1 I need Hoyo to stop hurting my babies, please, and thank.

(JK I love the pain)

Seventeen system hours.

That day felt so long ago now, but it still sits heavy on everyone's mind. Ratio, ever the rational one, wanted to talk about it, get everything out in the open and to fix things because the good doctor didn't leave problems unsolved.

Sunday didn't take the same approach, because ackowling the issue meant acknowledging how he'd hurt and almost killed their lover. How close he had been to taking away the brightest light in their lives and he couldn't do it. Instead, he spends their time together lavishing his partners with gifts and spoils but still keeping a safe emotional distance.

While Aventurine waves it off, saying it is fine, he doesn't care, all that matters is that things worked out at the end, even if he still woke up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat and violently trembling from the nightmare of having the Harmony dug deep into his aching brain.

Seventeen system hours.

It was hard to believe it had happened at all, or that they still hadn't managed how to talk about it without one or all of them ending up so heated they needed to walk away.

"Veritas, you're crushing me." Aventunine grumbles under his breath, feeling the scholar's tight arms wrapped around him while they prepare for a dinner party that evening. The doctor mumbles something he can't make out before loosening his grip.

"You always hold me like I'm about to disappear," he says it as a joke, but the way Ratio goes still behind him makes Aventurine's heartache deep.

"I didn't mean-"

"Quiet." a trail of kisses is left down the back of the blond's neck and over his bare shoulders.

"Are you almost ready?" the click of Sunday's shoes alerts the pair before he turns the corner to their room. Aventurine hears the breath catch in his lover's throat, and Ratio quickly releases his hold.

"You look...divine." Sunday struggles to find a word powerful enough to describe his beautiful lover, but it is nearly impossible. The garment left his shoulders exposed, but draped softly around his arms and dipped low at his chest. The cloth hugged the curve of his swollen belly, his hands resting gently atop it. A faint blush creeps over his cheeks, unable to look away.

"I don't remember purchasing that for you."

"Because you didn't. Robin did. Not that I need either of you to buy me things." none of the three could be described as anything short of idiotically wealthy, but Sunday and Ratio always insisted on spoiling Aventurine regardless. Not that he minded at all.

"She's excited for tonight." Sunday quirks a small smile, something he'd started doing a lot more recently with Robin having returned to his life.

"That makes one of us," Aventurine grumbles, tugging at his sleeve and adjusting the hem of his top.

Ratio places a hand on his shoulder, and Sunday steps closer, cupping the blond's face with his hands.

"You don't need to be worried. Everyone will love you."

Aventurine snorts, eyes darting to avoid Sunday's eyes.

"The family was less than thrilled to find out, I can imagine 'polite society' will be even less understanding of you having a child with a-" he stops himself, mouth snapping shut and eyes squeezing closed.

"Aven, I love you," Sunday pauses, glancing up to meet Ratio's eyes, "We love you. All of you. Every part of you." Ratio's thumb graces over the brand on Aventurine's neck, and he shutters.

"Other people will not be so understanding. If it was only me, I couldn't be assed to care but our baby is going to be the center of attention and the target of so much-"

"And if anyone so much as looks at you wrong, I'll have their heads." it isn't an empty threat, and it only causes Aventurine to shutter once more.

"You are not facing anything alone. Not anymore." Ratio wraps his arms around his lover's waist, large hands resting over the taunt bump. Sunday joins him, gently running soothing circles where their unborn child slept.

"You two are impossible, you know that?" the men chuckle, Sunday coming to meet Aventurine's mouth with a deep kiss, and Ratio's lips working their way back across his neck. The blond moans, shivering and pulling away from their touches.

"If you don't knock it off we're going to be late."

Sunday laughs, and Ratio rolls his eyes.

"Very well, we'll simply finish this when we return home tonight."

[localplaguenurse]

Tell us.

*cracks knuckles*

Reasons Pantalone is husband material: a thread

So in the context of prev ask, literally anyone would make for a better spouse in an arranged marriage, it’s just that I think Pantalone would be the best because I love him

Because I love him also I’m going off my interpretations of him because where are my fucking crumbs Hoyo it has been a year since his appearance-

First and foremost, he’s a rich bitch. He cannot only provide for you, but he could also spoil you absolutely rotten.

Second, we know he’s very passionate about his work and ideas, going on and on about them. A passion for your craft is a very attractive trait but then you factor in that voice and yeah, even if you don’t know wtf he’s talking about you’re absolutely getting drawn into that discussion just to hear him talk.

He has many stories to share, some he’s more willing to discuss than others, but regardless the stories he has are rarely ever dull. The only dull ones would be business meetings but the voice does the heavy lifting.

From intellectual discussions to hearing him ramble about his day at the bank, no matter how active you are in that conversation, it’s rarely ever a dull one.

He’s the friendliest of the Harbingers save for Childe. His status and his jobs as Harbinger and founder of the Northland Bank means he’s had to learn and master etiquette and manners and how to sweet talk people. Even if it is just a front to get others to trust him, a polite tone and charming smile will get you anywhere if you know when and where to use them.

Getting him to actually open up to you would be a tricky job because childhood trauma is a bitch, but once you actually get him vulnerable you will have that man in the palm of your hand.

His empathy can be a little hit or miss sometimes because again, trauma is a bitch. It’s a side effect of the cynicism he’s developed as a result of growing up in poverty and having to get his hands dirty in one way or another to survive, let alone succeed in life. Still, when it comes to his partner, he takes their troubles and traumas very seriously because he knows what it’s like to be helpless and doesn’t want them of all people to feel that way.

You cannot tell me he isn’t touch starved. In private that man can and will find any way he can to get close to you. He will obvs respect boundaries, but he just finds comfort in your touch. This one is more up to you if it’s a good or bad thing but I like physical touch so it’s good to me.

The man is meticulous. He would want everything to be perfect. He’ll pull whatever strings he can to impress you, and would pay attention to all the things you like. Is there a particular gemstone you like? He’ll make sure all the jewellery he puts on you has them and that they match your attire. You mentioned offhand that there’s a specific dish from Sumeru you haven’t had in a while? Dinner the next day is that exact dish with the most authentic recipe he can have his cooks work from.

Could literally give you any wedding you want, at least as far as cost goes. If it’s some super ridiculous and tacky themed wedding he will more than likely shoot it down, but if we’re talking venues, decor, attire, food, etc, literally do not worry about it. Just tell him what you want and he’ll have it done and paid for yesterday. Small wedding, big wedding, does not matter, he can afford it.

What I’m trying to say is that even if you were to be in an arranged and probably loveless marriage with him, you’d still get a pretty good deal because you still get an interesting and polite man who will take care of your needs. It just happens that if you do marry him for love or eventually fall in love, he will just go all in on you because now he wants to keep you, impress you, and show his appreciation to you.

Anyways seriously hoyo where the fuck is he-

This would’ve been longer but I already shared a lot of my ideas in my domestic pants headcanons, and uh... the rest of my ideas are not pg-13 and I’m not in the smut writing mood (plus I think I’d rather have that in a separate post but I’m not doing it rn)

[spumonibones]

Chasing Wings: Memoria Chapter 13

Pairing: Xiao x Venti

First Chapter (Ao3)* ; First Chapter (Tumblr)

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Lore/Story Notes

Chapter CW: None

Update Schedule: Every Wednesday (temp hiatus until July 31, 2024)

Ao3 chapters are currently locked due to a shady site creating issues. Registered users can still read, but chapters will be posted on Tumblr for those who don't. : )

Canon Divergence AU; Other Four Yaksha Still Live; Zhongli already retired but Osial hasn't happened; Canon Typical Violence

Summary:

"To Err is Human, to Forget is Godly."

Almost 500 years ago, the Cataclysm happened. As the fires and monsters dwindled, most of the Seven had fallen. One, Barbatos, simply disappeared - and in his absence, the mourning songs of Dvalin would serenade the land of wind each yearly anniversary. The surviving Archons presumed him dead, and Monstadt presumed he simply never was. One day, before a Traveler will fish Teyvat's Best Guide from its waters, a young man named Venti is rescued by the Vigilant Yaksha. Without memory a face as familiar as it is foreign, the question then becomes... What path can one take, when new memories meet old?

!!Please sign the petition for Hoyo to cease its cultural appropriation and white-washing!!

***

Venti realized after he was already lifted into Xiao’s arms, that he had out of habit slid into the hands scooping him up. The surprise caused him to blink, a sensation in his brain akin to static shock. Why was it so much more natural when Xiao did it compared to the other yaksha? That he belonged there. Shutting his mouth, his own arms wrapping tightly around the yaksha’s neck as the cloud of energy moved them from Wangshu Inn to wherever was a ‘safe place’ to get wings cleaned. Wings with a span larger than the bard’s body length. There was a rustling of leaves and nearby flowers, and the strong, thick scent of ocean. Not quite opening his eyes yet, Venti took an extra moment to chide himself. Under no circumstances could he let himself get used to being carried around like some spoiled charge. What was he going to do if Xiao ever planned on walking him somewhere? 

…What was he going to do if Xiao had every intention to keep holding him? Why am I fixating on this? He wondered, only to blame it on how he had been woken before noon. Typically, Xiao let the bard wake on his own before collecting him. This time, Venti's shoulders were shaken, gently, and when he opened his eyes to complain was taken aback by the striking, glowing golden eyes of Xiao staring at him. For the first time in the memories he carried, Venti thought it was a sight he could wake to every morning. A thought he immediately brushed off, ignoring it in favor of getting ready. Had made the mistake of forgetting why Xiao had woken him, and in retrospect Venti realized he probably wore too many clothes?

Regardless, the second he was ready the pair repeated the same interaction. Each time, Xiao’s left arm would start by sliding beneath Venti’s thighs to under his knees. Almost immediately, his right hand was already steadying Venti’s lower back. With strength that did not match his build, Xiao would quickly slide the bard against himself and hold the other bridal style. Always in this way, careful to ensure that Venti’s head never ended up on the yaksha’s left shoulder. There was a guard or a pauldron, Venti wasn’t sure which it was supposed to be. But there was a jut of what looked like two ivory horns, one twice the size of its smaller counterpart. The bard assumed the yaksha was simply being cautious of the pokey guard. Or perhaps Xiao didn’t care if Venti got gored by accident by the horns. Maybe it was because he had the long sleeve on his left arm, that draped to the yaksha’s knees. That he was so accustomed to accommodating the sleeve, that having legs there made no difference? Whatever motivation for the consistency, it was only adding to this becoming a habit. 

“We’re here. Have you heard any of the stories about Sal Terrae? God of Salt? …Havria?” As he always did, Xiao got straight to the point. Venti was curious what prompted the need to ask a question this time, however. There was also an underlying emotion, something complex that was a mix of too many things to easily identify in tone. Blue and green eyes opened, Venti stiffening when his gaze was met with golden ones for the second time that morning. The two quickly looked away, both sides startled. 

“Sorry…” “Sorry!”

The two apologies differed in tone, but matched in timing. Venti laughed softly at their unison. “Uh… I heard a bit about the God of Salt from one of the storytellers? That she was a kind god, of whom used her powers to bless her people and to protect them? That she died to another god during the wars…?” There was always some discomfort when Venti heard himself mentioning the Archon Wars. In this instance, he assumed it was because Xiao had been alive during that time. That perhaps the discomfort was fear this was a friend of Xiao’s, and if he spoke too impolitely of her the yaksha would take offense. That was what he told himself.

“...Something like that.” Xiao said softly, those complicated emotions swirling in his eyes as he focused his gaze on the distance. Following his eyes, Venti held a breath at what he saw. It was beautiful. The pair were on a small structure of rock, surrounded by red flowers in full bloom that taller than either of the two. Below the formation was a circle of stone, the center opened up to show the river around them was flowing in a perpetual waterfall into a cavern below. Past it was the vast expanse of the river, so wide that for a moment Venti forgot it wasn’t an ocean. There was a dotting of sandbars, some holding ruins, some holding thick trees of reds. Even further into the distance was the Wangshu Inn, a thin mist obscuring parts of the building and the tree it was constructed around. To the left and the right were mountains, each leaning slightly as if parting way for anyone standing there to see much of Liyue’s beauty. Clouds of gold lined with pinks rose behind the landscape, and for that moment Venti yearned to have the hands of a painter. To capture this moment, for fear his memory couldn’t capture it well-enough for later. 

If not a mural, then he supposed he would simply have to compose the song the calm blue waters whispered to him. 

“Her name was Havria, and she was very gentle. Sal Terrae was the last of her domains, and it is also… Where she spent her last moments with her people.” Xiao’s voice was quieter, his eyes lowering. Venti shifted his gaze, always following behind the other with trepid curiosity. There, in front of the stone circle, was a tombstone showing signs of crumbling. Pieces near the bottom were becoming eroded by the tides, and at the top chunks had been knocked off. 

“This is her grave.” Venti had meant it as a question, but the words came out understanding that yes, it was. There was a nod just within that of the bard’s peripheral. 

“Her home is deeper in, this area outside is more… Like an entrance. No one will see you here, and Havria never even had the malice to curse those who took her life. It is safe. But I also understand most people fear places like these.” Xiao’s stare remained on the tombstone.

“It wouldn’t be disrespectful?” Venti clarified.

“No. I wouldn’t have brought you here if it was.” Xiao answered, his voice becoming more gentle and the waterfall in front of them beginning to take away the sound. “She’s been alone a long time…” The yaksha added, and Venti wasn’t sure if he actually heard the other speak. The bard felt his heart clench. “The Archon Wars were cruel. Nothing gentle was allowed to survive.” 

Despite the irony in what was said from who spoke it, Venti didn’t laugh. He couldn’t. Only frowned at the yaksha, who was still holding him. Who on a multitude of occasions could have simply dropped Venti the first chance he got. Yet, every time, Xiao kept hold of the bard until he was ready to be put back down. If the need to prove Xiao wrong to himself wasn’t so powerful, Venti would have tested to see just how long he would have been held. “Plenty of gentleness was allowed to survive.” Venti spoke with a sternness that, were he not feeling so heated, would have startled him. A piece of his heart trying to climb out, to share a truth that the yaksha refused to see. “I’m looking at one, right now.”

“I’m not-”

“Then throw me down into there.” Venti ordered, one hand no longer holding on so he could motion down towards the cavern below. A pair of confused gold eyes shifted from the tombstone to stare at the bard. “You know I can fly, I’ll be fine. Give me a good ol’ toss! Because otherwise, I’m starting to think you planned on carrying me down.” The accusation garnered a few stammers from the yaksha, his pointed ears turning red and his eyes trying to look at anything except Venti.

Oh, I was right? Venti thought, the beat in his chest hastening. 

“I’m not throwing you.” Was all that Xiao could manage. “I protect Liyue’s inhabitants, that’s my duty, my contract, it has nothing-” On he was going, filling the air with his excuses as Xiao kept trying to dodge seeing the kindness that he carried. With a roll of his eyes, Venti wriggled himself out of the arms that had been carrying him. Gloved hands hovered by the bard, not daring to risk the other falling through his fingers should he trip. Venti’s own bare ones took Xiao’s into a light hold, and he beamed at the other.

“Hey. Listen to me. Just because you’ve done terrible things, it doesn’t mean you’re terrible. By that logic, that would be saying some pretty cruel things about Rex Lapis, wouldn’t it?” Venti asked, poising the question in a way to hopefully at least get the other to think. “Because you’ve done a lot of really wonderful, kind things. Like what you’re about to do.” The bard gave a wink, and at his words Xiao’s flustered visage shifted quickly into fear. Letting go of Xiao, Venti kicked himself off the rock formation… And let gravity pull him downwards. Offering two peace signs with both his hands, Venti stuck out his tongue when he heard the yaksha yell out his name in annoyance and concern. Watched as Xiao leapt upwards before doing his spin to dive down in after him. 

Because that was just how Xiao was. No matter the blood on the yaksha’s hands, his heart would always yearn to save instead of kill. Xiao would spend the rest of his life slaying monsters, just so people could live. All so mortals could walk down the streets in Liyue Harbor, could travel the roads between towns… All safely, all without fear. This land’s beauty was able to thrive, because of yaksha like Xiao. 

This was not the first time that Xiao had to jump after someone to save them. This was, however, probably the first time the person he was ‘saving’ wrapped their arms around him when he reached them. Letting his wings out, Venti laughed at the confusion on Xiao’s face, lit up with the Anemo of his hair and eyes. “We’re gonna make a splash!” He yelled, laughter continuing. Not sure what else to do, Xiao wrapped Venti’s head with his arms in order to protect the bard’s skull. This is what I meant by being kind, Venti thought with a sigh. Using the Anemo, of which was all but second nature now, Venti slowed their descent considerably. The air parted the mist from the waterfall, exposing the lily pads growing thick around the edges of the cavern’s lake. He turned them from being headfirst to now being feet first as they splashed into the water. Both parted to emerge above water, hands treading to keep themselves afloat. 

“You could have hurt yourself.” Xiao grumbled at Venti, glaring in full force.

“With you around?” Venti asked incredulously. “I couldn’t if I wanted to.” He pointed out, opting to not return the angry stare attempting to burn into him. Instead, he inspected his surroundings. There was the waterfall, of course. A single tree, with no leaves and cracking bark. There was more to the cavern, leading in deeper into which algae and grass grew upon. Along the walls were hints of things growing, and he hoped it was the violetgrass that he had seen in other aerated areas. 

The scent of salt was stronger, but not overpowering. The area was dark, the hole above too small and too far to allow enough daylight to fully illuminate the area below. An idea came to Venti, his eyes lighting up figuratively and literally. 

“This isn’t wide. You could have broken a wing, you were too reckless.” Xiao’s scolding continued, and that time he had a point that Venti couldn’t refute.

“...You’re right. I apologize. I shouldn’t have let my emotions get the better of me like that.” Venti admitted, sucking in his lips and finally returning the yaksha’s look. He was sorry. Wings seemed to be a rather… Sensitive subject for the other. Piece by piece, Venti was unraveling why without having been told. 

“So long as you understand.” Xiao grumbled, refusing to look the other in the eye. Tilting his head to the side, Venti watched him with a puzzled visage. What was that for? Xiao didn’t look angry anymore. So why did he look away? “I’ll give you privacy.” Piece said, the yaksha began to swim towards the rock with the dead tree that clung to it with roots that stubbornly remained. 

“Wait!” Venti called after, awkwardly swimming after with wings that smacked the surface of the water as if to help him. This did not help. “I don’t… Know what I’m supposed to do? I thought you were helping?” There was a lack of literature on how to clean one’s own wings. There also wasn’t much literature that Venti had been able to find on how to bathe a bird as a starting point. He also suffered from eyes that far too easily found other tomes much more appealing to read. Such as collections of hymns, legends in Liyue, music theory… Topics that he was inevitably drawn to, nose buried within their pages without a thought. 

Still treading water, back to Venti, the yaksha was silent. Venti hoped he hadn’t upset the other too much. There was a chance that Xiao would leave, if only to prove a point. He had no reason to stay, and if Venti’s guess was correct then this might even dredge up painful memories. The more he learned, the more time they spent together… The more Venti suspected that, at some point, Xiao had wings of his own. Wings that the adeptus could no longer use. Eyes glowing a vibrant Anemo turquoise stared at the other’s back. The thick fabric didn’t betray the skin beneath it despite being made of a white cloth, hiding whatever secrets may or may not exist. The long sleeve attached to his left arm flowed in the water like a snake, and some guilt began to build in realization that the fabric couldn’t be easy to swim with. 

Still, Xiao paused when Venti called. Who had put it into Xiao’s mind that he was a monster, when he was so… Wonderfully, poetically, beautifully gentle? It didn’t matter, Venti decided with a deep breath, tilting his chin up to more easily breathe without accidentally drinking the water. If he accomplished nothing else, he was determined to help change the yaksha’s mind. Somehow. 

As he tread the water, Xiao had hoped Venti forgot about that. That had been too big of an ask, and he had to accept it. But… He could help, and it be okay. Right? Venti had kissed him with platonic, nonromantic affection. Humans would embrace without romantic intent. Surely Xiao could assist Venti in cleaning his wings in a perfectly normal, platonic, friendly way? I can try, he thought as he accepted the situation he found himself in. 

“Come here.” Xiao relented, changing his direction to an area of shallow water. The beaming smile that filled Venti’s face couldn’t be restrained, and he eagerly swam after the yaksha. Sitting himself on the rock first, Xiao then assisted the bard in following suit. You’re doing it again, Venti thought with amusement but dared not verbalize it. The shallower water reached their waists where they sat. Shirts, sleeves, and cape all clung to their torsos having been thoroughly soaked. Neither moved, the only light were hints of the sun from above, and the glow of pale green and deep gold. Letting his legs hang off the edge that led to a sharp drop into deeper waters, Venti lightly splashed water with feet as he waited. Silence stretched out, no instruction and nothing happening. There had to be a reason for the pause, and the bard didn’t mind waiting. There had been enough occasions in which he had to wait while Xiao rushed off to save someone or deal with a creature, this didn’t feel entirely different. Except Xiao was next to him, quiet over something.

“If this makes you uncomfortable, you don’t have to.” Venti said, offering the escape that he suspected Xiao needed. Waiting he was fine with. But now he was worried that this wasn’t a matter of Xiao trying to figure out logistics. That there might have been something more, an old wound that was being forced open. 

“I’m fine.” Xiao was unexpectedly curt in his reply, Venti turning his head with a raised brow. That was not how a ‘fine’ person would speak. Behind him, Xiao’s brows were pulled together in thought, his mouth a thin line. His ears were also very, very red and steadily spreading into cheeks. 

What was he embarrassed about?! 

What was it about wings that got the other so flustered? Venti knew he was missing something very critical here, and it bothered him that he couldn’t figure it out. 

Exhaling a shaky breath, eyes glued a bit too much on white feathers, Xiao tried to talk with a steady voice. For the most part, he was successful. For the less part, Venti caught the subtle tremble. “This’ll be easier without clothes.” This surprised Venti. Of all things, he hadn’t expected the yaksha to be flustered by partial nudity. 

Fingers underwater tapped slowly on the rock, Venti trying to find the best approach. Personally, he didn’t mind. Getting naked to get clean made sense, and there would be areas of his wings that couldn’t be reached with a shirt, corset, and cape in the way. Those same areas would be difficult to reach with his own two hands, so having Xiao to get that for him would be nice. But not nice enough to demand the yaksha do something he was so clearly uncomfortable with. Shrugging, Venti decided to be direct. The two were too far deep for him to dance around it. “Xiao. You don’t have to help, I promise. Getting naked doesn’t bother me, but I should have considered it might bother you.” 

“Bare skin doesn’t bother me. Modesty is a mortal concept.” Xiao muttered, taking in another deep breath. “I was worried it would bother you…” 

“Is that it?” Venti asked, laughing. The red on Xiao was starting to recede, fading the more he controlled his breathing. “Don’t stress about me. Hard to get embarrassed when there isn’t much to look at!” He joked playfully about himself. Reassured that was all, Venti immediately set about removing the top half of his attire. The second problem Venti discovered about his leap into the water, was as he removed the corset the sudden understanding the leather was probably not going to take kindly to this treatment. Eyes searched around the cavern, trying to locate a rock or something to put it on. The dead tree was next to the waterfall, and would do nothing to give the corset a chance to recover. There wasn’t really anything. With a pout, he bundled up the clothes he removed, and with Anemo shot it far enough to land in a wet squelch on the rock that was the mouth of the underground cave. Taking his cap off, he slid one side of the rim on his pointer finger, and pulled it back with the other hand’s thumb and finger. Squinting in mockery of aiming, he released it with more Anemo to propel it far enough to land on the pile. 

There was no reason to take his shorts or stockings off, but he did choose to remove his shoes. That was going to be terrible to walk in later. Wait! I can dry it off! With my abilities! Excitement filling his chest, Venti may have sent his poor shoes a bit further than where his clothes were. The misfire couldn’t dampen his spirits, not much could. Discovering he could magic away wet stockings in equally wet shoes into dry ones was empowering. Delighting in his increasing skills in Anemo, Venti took a peak towards Xiao to see if his mentor took any notice. Standing up, Xiao was focused on twisting out the long sleeve he had removed. To Venti’s surprise, he also took off his top. The shirt had been rather skin tight to begin with, and the flesh beneath looked the same as what was implied. There were a few scars, some that dipped down while others were more raised. Venti did note that he couldn’t really see any of Xiao’s back, and he wondered if that was intentional. The shirt itself had already been wringed out, and was now draped over the yaksha’s non-tattooed shoulder. The long sleeve joined it shortly. To the side resting on rocks, were Xiao’s gloves, the shoulder guard, and the long fabric that was draped down the front of his legs. Standing in only his pants and necklace, Xiao had an almost casual appearance. 

It was… Pleasant. 

Shifting his thoughts away from how nice Xiao looked, Venti put his attention back onto his feet, still inside his wet stockings. Attempted to ignore the heat that was growing on his cheeks. Soon as his gaze was off the yaksha, Venti could hear Xiao walking through the water to add his remaining attire to the pile. He doesn't want me to see, Venti thought. Could feel the yaksha’s side-eye, ensuring no peeks were being snuck his way. Fine, he wouldn’t look. But, on the subject of visibility… Closing his eyes, tilting his head back, Venti encouraged the breeze around them. Let the Anemo energy slip out of him subtly, let it entice all those little elemental creatures to the pair and cool his face off. The dimness of the cavern would make it hard for Xiao to see, Venti reasoned. There was a smile on his lips even so, all-too aware that the real reason wasn’t for the sake of sight. 

Finished, Xiao joined Venti in sitting down. “Are you certain you’re okay with me… Touching your wings?” The yaksha had to raise his voice in order to be heard over the waterfall, hesitance and wonder all rolled into one.

“Your touch is nice, Xiao. I like it.” Venti found himself saying, glowing eyes opening up and gleamed with the same softness as his words. Then he heard the words that left his mouth, and felt heat flood every inch of his body. “Y-You’re very gentle, it’s fine!” He added in a rush, hoping the other wouldn’t read too much into that. If Venti was lucky, the waterfall’s noise would make Xiao mishear it as something else. An incomprehensible statement, that was far from what was actually said. 

“If you’re sure.” Xiao was still hesitant, which was frustrating because did he hear or not? On repeat, Venti tried to convince himself the other didn’t. That Xiao was too easily flustered, and if he had heard correctly would have teleported away or something. “...Venti?” The yaksha asked, and in spite of the embarrassment, Venti’s smile returned in full force. Fluttering in from above were the Anemo crystalflies, the anemograna, and a few other glowing creatures. Venti was quite pleased to see how well he succeeded in enticing them all. Now the cavern was filled with the pale green glow of Anemo, the small critters a ballet of movement. 

“See? It’s okay.” Venti reinforced, motioning at their new companions. Holding out a hand, one of the crystalflies landed on an offered finger. Eyes crinkling, he looked back at Xiao. “You don’t scare either of us.” He reassured, voice warm and comforting. There was a dumbfounded expression on Xiao for a moment. Swallowing hard, Xiao let out a shaky breath and nodded. Pleased at his work, Venti gave an approving hum and resumed looking forward once more. Lowered his hand slightly, before lifting it up to encourage the crystalfly to resume flight.

“I’m… Going to touch you now.” Xiao said, taking some effort to sound normal. There was still some shakiness.

Venti was right, Xiao's hand remained steady and gentle. The same care that the yaksha used in carrying Venti was matched in helping the bard preen his wings. Venti could hear the water be disturbed when Xiao would rinse his hands between. Felt the soft, warm puffs of Anemo that Xiao used to dry each area as he made his way through. If Xiao needed to tilt the wing this way or that, would murmur a warning or make a request. A shiver went up Venti’s spine as Xiao’s hand ran along the top of the wing, fingers sliding across marginal covert feathers to the alula, and away from primary coverts. Anemo slipped between feathers, pressing the water carrying debris out and away. Hands that cautiously, curiously, traced the bones beneath skin that emerged covered in a white down. The contact caused Venti to do a sharp inhale, his shoulders tensing with his wings following. 

Going in, he just assumed getting his wings would have been weird, at worst. Instead, now that he was getting help, the whole thing felt… Intimate. Tense as his muscles were in growing understanding, his insides were soft and warm, malleable beneath the hands that were always so tender with him. Made his chest hurt when he tried to rationalize, because there was a fear in the thought, Xiao’s like this with everyone, that made him want to cry. How simple Venti must have been, he thought in sudden realization, to fall so deeply for someone who treated everyone this kindly. To know that the longing to be close was a goal he chased not to be friends, but in hope for more.

Venti’s memories were a mush, his life from before an incomprehensible blur. This moment was one that he hoped would be added into that pile, his cheeks burning. To forget that the hammering in his chest was for the person behind him, a beat skipping each time those touches could be mistaken for a caress. If Venti hadn’t persuaded Xiao to help him, to feel his touch like this… How long into too late would he had been in figuring it out? 

Abruptly, the hands were gone. “I’m sorry.” Xiao whispered, his voice thick. “That’s… All I can do.” 

“Oh. Oh! Y-Yes, that’s okay. I appreciate what you could do.” Venti made himself answer, even if his voice sounded shy to his ears. Couldn’t just ignore the other, not after he spent so much time and effort helping Venti. Not wanting to ruin the wings so quickly as they were cleaned, the bard pulled them back in. The feathers felt clean and fresh, and Venti wondered if that was really an ending point rather than a stopping point. But, Xiao knew more about this than Venti did. Whatever else was left, if anything, he decided he would need to figure it out on his own. Venti doubted his heart could handle doing this a second time. The pounding was so loud, he was starting to fear that the other could hear it over the waterfall. The itching was preferable to this sudden understanding. “You did way more than I could have on my own.” He added on. Felt as if he needed to fixate on it, to keep the conversation as neutral as possible. 

“I didn’t hurt you, did I?” Xiao asked, his voice odd. 

“No!” Venti answered in a rush. “It just. I’m not used to having wings yet. It all felt… New.” Venti decided on. That was neutral enough, that was truthful enough. 

“That’s good.” Xiao said. From the corner of his eyes, Venti could see the shadow of Xiao nodding. A quiet fell over the two, each of them distracted by individual thoughts. The cavern was still twinkling with the flittering of the crystalfly and the anemograna, orbs of Anemo acting as dancing lights. A sight that would have been beautiful to anyone to behold, the lights reflecting off of the water in a smooth reflection like stars. The violetgrass on the walls lined the sides of the lake, lily pads adding to the framing. 

Biting his lower lip, eyes taking a chance look at Xiao, Venti realized just how beautiful it really was. At some point, the yaksha had pushed those long strands in the front of his face behind his ears. For the first time, Venti could see all of his face without Xiao hiding behind his hair. Xiao looked up, and their eyes met. The silence continued, neither looking away nor knowing what to say or do. 

Venti’s heart ached, it soared, it wanted to stop. Could feel pressure building behind his eyes, and knew he had seconds before tears would fall. Couldn't tell if he was leaning in, and felt a fear in that particular leap.

Naturally, he had to ruin the moment before he fell deeper.

“Water fight!” Venti declared, and with his hand scooped water to fling it at the other. This had the exact effect the bard wanted: the moment was gone. Whatever that moment may have been was lost to their stares broken, Xiao flinching at the sudden splash in his direction with minimal warning. There had been confusion at Venti’s proclamation, the yaksha unable to make sense of the what or why. 

“What the-?!” Left Xiao’s mouth before water stopped his words, the yaksha sputtering. Not daring to stay there any longer, Venti scooted himself back into the deeper water. Taking in a deep breath, he went under as a precaution to whatever retaliation awaited him. If there was any. He definitely confused Xiao, Venti couldn’t discount that there wouldn’t be any. As he went down, a few curious crystalfly followed after him. Scared for them, Venti created air bubbles for the creatures that bobbed down in an imitation of delight. Whatever about himself that made him such a magnet for the little Anemo beings, Venti couldn’t deny he enjoyed it. Grinned despite himself as he was lit up like a lamp by the crystalflies bouncing around him, as if he were a torch attracting moths. Except, he supposed that was an imperfect comparison. Given that yes, parts of him lit up like a torch, but the ‘moths’ that floated around him gave off far more light than he did. As his lungs started to burn, Venti decided he needed to learn how to use Anemo to hold his breath for as long as he wanted. 

A trick he wasn’t going to learn while running out of air. Kicking his legs, he swam back up to the surface to take in a deep inhale with his tiny Anemo friends following. Still sitting in the shallow end, leaning forward with furrowed brows, was Xiao. “What was that for?” He asked, narrowed eyes adding more to a look of confusion than annoyance. 

“Nothing!” Venti lied, trying to laugh it off. To act like he was just being playful, and not avoiding the emotions he was finally recognizing for what they were: yearning. The very source of those emotions sitting in front of him, confused and oblivious. “I figure, since we’re basically done and don’t have anything to do… We could have a little fun!” If he couldn’t convince himself, he could at least try to convince Xiao. Xiao, a man who lived for over two-thousand years, and seemed to maintain his sanity solely by not asking the big questions. A skill that Venti would do well to learn, he decided. 

Still sitting, watching Venti closely, Xiao didn’t seem convinced. Thankfully, the yaksha continued to live his life the way he always had. “I assume a water fight… Isn’t an actual fight.” That’s my Xiao, right to the point, Venti thought, flinching when catching that he used ‘my.’ No, he couldn’t think like that. There was literally an inn of people that had far more right to think that way than he did. Also, those same people would probably make Venti disappear if they ever knew he even thought it. 

“No, not really. It’s more like… A bit like, you know how sometimes people will make snowballs, and throw them at each other? Try to dodge them and hit the other? Same concept, except it’s with splashing!” Venti explained. 

“Why?” That confusion was still there, Xiao earnestly searching the bard’s face. Just in case the other was trying to mess with him.

“Because it’s fun! Come on. Try it!” Venti said encouragingly, kicking his legs a bit harder so he could use both hands to briefly urge the other to join him. Remaining on his perch, Xiao eyed Venti with uncertainty. His jaw tensed, brows remaining furrowed. Flared his nostrils out, and for a frightening second Venti was starting to worry he had angered the yaksha somehow. Gold eyes paused in their scrutinizing gaze, flicking down in slight confusion. Mouth parted just slightly, as if Xiao wanted to say or ask something. Venti looked down as well, trying to follow the adeptus’ line of sight. The symbol on his chest was glowing, just like his hair, his eyes, and the ones on his arms. Yet it was dimmer, as if it had to permeate through what looked like the star-shaped scar. Realizing that was why Xiao stared, Venti bit his lower lip. Tried to fight the urge to cover himself, suddenly very self-conscious. Noting the shift from playful, Xiao immediately averted his gaze and said nothing. 

All at once, Xiao let out another of his heavy exhales. Scooting forward, he leaned over to look down at the deeper waters. Fingers gripped onto the edge, Xiao weighing if he should or shouldn’t. Had his head cocked to the side again, pointed ears straining to hear for anyone that needed him. There was silence, as Liyue remained at peace. Lifted his eyes to gauge Venti, eyes that eased from narrow to what might have been indulgent. Pushing himself forward, he was in the water with the bard, treading it. 

Xiao knew better than to use all of his strength to splash. The purpose was to… Play. Not to drown the other person. So, with as close to an open mind as he could muster, Xiao lightly smacked the water in the direction of Venti. A few droplets landed on the other, garnering several blinks. Pulled Venti out of his insecurity. Right. He probably isn’t used to goofing around… Venti thought, his own brows having their turn to furrow in contemplation. There was only one time he could think of in which he saw Xiao smile. Right. The two would just need to ease into it, give the yaksha time to figure out how to have fun. “Close! A bit more like this!” Venti said, and sent another splash. Xiao tensed, closing his eyes as the water crashed over him. The weight of the water pulled some of the longer hairs, clinging onto his cheek. “Part of the fun is trying to dodge!” Venti continued. “Try it!” 

“Okay…” Xiao said, still uncertain, but put more force into his next attempt. Staying where he was, this time Venti also had to close his eyes as the water rained over him. With a wide grin, he beamed over at the yaksha. “Much better! Okay, my turn now! Try to dodge!” Soon as he said it, Venti regretted his word choice. Because of course Xiao dodged… By teleporting to the other side as soon as Venti splashed towards him. “...You know, normally people would call that cheating…”

“You said to dodge?” Xiao reminded him, confused as to why doing as instructed was suddenly ‘cheating.’ 

“I said normally! Part of the fun is you don’t use anything special. No adeptal powers, no Visions, no… Whatever I got.” Venti wished he had thought to say, ‘no Anemo,’ before and not after the fact. Regardless, he was pretty sure he got the point across. “Otherwise you’ll be splashing me, I won’t have a chance.” The bard continued, his smile not once faltering in all of this. A nod was his reply, and Xiao swam back over to his original spot. 

The two created a rhythm of splashing and dodging, Xiao quickly picking up on what was and wasn’t allowed. Learned that going under the water’s surface counted to dodge, even if getting more wet than what the splash would do seemed counterproductive. That he could use both of his hands to splash if he wanted. Got shown to cup both hands together, and how to squeeze to fire a stream of water out. That also counted, though would take practice to be more effective. Found diving forward to get closer, to try and splash the other before they dove under was allowed. 

Found that, somewhere in all of this, Xiao was enjoying himself. Was enjoying the gleeful laughter leaving Venti, their exchange having progressed from an amicable back-and-forth to both sides blatantly trying to get a splash in before the inevitable retaliation. There were no longer turns, just the pair sharing this moment of joy in the once quiet and lonely halls of Havria’s. Gods never truly died. That was what made them gods. As he dove under, Xiao knew that watching them would make her smile. Could almost feel the fondness from the walls, could picture her leaning against the cave entrance with that gentle smile still on her face. Diving deeper down, keeping his eyes open Xiao decided he would try a new tactic. See if that was on the table, or was ‘against the rules,’ of which he still wasn’t clear on. Part of him suspected that Venti may have been making some up along the way. 

Wrapping his arms around Venti’s waist and thighs, he lifted the other up and out of the water with himself. Legs kicked hard, Xiao taking advantage of the buoyancy the two had in the water to keep his head from sinking underwater again. A startled squawk left Venti at suddenly being held above the water, legs and arms briefly flailing before registering that it was Xiao and not some monster. “Hey that’s-”

“No fair?” Xiao finished, raising a brow with a ghost of a grin because he knew it. Did it anyway, because the reaction it wrought was both funny and adorable. Eyes lit up with Anemo narrowed, Venti pursing his lips. “Is this ‘cheating,’ too?” The yaksha asked. In his arms, Venti shifted so he could rest a hand on a bare shoulder and stare down with that frown.

“Of course it is! How can I splash you back! The only thing I could do is… Is…” Venti didn’t finish his sentence, and instead started leaning back with his face turned away. The first thing that came to his mind was: kiss you! But he was not going to say that. He was not going to do that. Wanted to kick himself for even thinking it. Angry at himself for what felt like moving too quickly, wanting things too fast from someone that wouldn’t feel the same. Wouldn’t even want the same. 

Venti was not aware that Xiao’s thoughts mirrored his own in some way, and with pointed red ears simply let the other go. As a result, with a yelp the bard fell backwards unceremoniously into the water. Splashed about to get his head above water once more, but was too flustered to dare look at the yaksha. “Uh… I’m getting hungry, actually…” Venti lied. No, he couldn’t do this. Thought he could, was irrevocably wrong about it. Even when he tried to make his thoughts stop, the second he let his guard down there he was again. 

“Oh… Right…” Xiao nodded, somewhat dazed. More surprised at the odd disappointment that filled him. This should have relieved him, hearing that Venti was ready to return to the inn. For a moment, he had almost made a terrible mistake. Tried to shake it off, to focus on what he needed to do. Because of his distraction, when he swam back over towards his clothes he forgot. For that brief moment, forgot he allowed Venti to see his exposed back. Quick as it was, Venti saw it.

The scars on his shoulders blades, the only remainder of what had once upon a time been wings…

[enden-k]

i didn't catch most of the sumeru events and I so get it. i want more of it too, it's like so-so. Big and colorful. fontaine is just sort of the same

Hoyoverse really popped off with sumeru tbh, both characters and quests.

tbh I'm of the opinion that like. there should be one new location event with each update (like the thelxi stuff, tho it was not very exploratory, could have been better) and then they should just do one in a Different nation (I guess they had that poetry thing but it was kinda boring)

also like. they need the hsr thing where you can play story events even after they're done. I missed the fucking interdarshan tournament and I'm still so fucking sad about it. I haven't even been playing genshin all that long and the events already bore me to death. i know they're hard to make but like hoyoverse come on. genshin is you most popular game, Make An Effort

...this kinda turned into complaining I'm sorry. long story short I get you

this is my main issue too and also probably why hoyo decided to take the focus off playable characters and instead make npcs important for events. i have difficulties connecting and feeling so easily so im really unfazed when some random ass same face npc who i know for not even 5mins suddenly dies (cough teppei or what that silly guy was named) or smth- what im saying is that i need the time and chance to know more of this character before i can have a connection and then im able to feel. its why i fucking CRIED and felt so much for jeht and why shes honestly the best npc in this entire game to me HAHAH we honestly need more npcs and stories like jeht and the one cartographer in the chasm etc

anyway

bc hoyo locked some important character stories/lore behind events where the focus was on them (albedos events with SUPER IMPORTANT lore to the game), the scara event before his release, kavehs event,...) it sucks a lot for people who missed those. i guess its why they started to bring in more npcs instead but honestly, those events feel very bland to me most of the time (ofc its different for others) bc of my issue with connecting with a character in a limited time. im excited to see some familiar faces again and then the main story is some random ass npcs lovestory

idk i feel like the events really drop lately. maybe its also just bc im a pampered little noodle spoiled rotten by lantern rite and interdarshan championship. idk if ppl get me there hhghg i think if they either create unique npcs and give us the time and chance to make a connection with them, the events they create around them might get better again. this, or they bring back more events focusing on playable characters but make those accessible after the event end for new players missing them

this turned super long and rambly sorry, im tired and brainless today uhghgh anyway

[walpu]

WALP HAVE YOU READ THE NEW TEXT FROM AVEN HE'S SOAHDHEND

[SPOILERS] (for the text and 2.2 quest)

I asked him to get me everything and now I feel guilty 😔

I'm so glad he's being more friendly with TB now tho. But it feels a little weird forced since the TB was hostile towards him before. Like yea we as the player love him but... Well, he's happy, idc, he's in therapy (kinda? ) and thriving and I hope he gets better and that we get to see him more in the next update

Also side note, it seems Ena being the Avgin Goddess is becoming more and more likely especially since the broken clockie in the mood tuning screen has the same eyes as Aven. Kinda sad that's the route they went tho ngl but well, I'll let hoyo cook a bit more before judging.

I'm just...so glad he's OK lol. Hopefully whatever Diamond has in store for him is positive but also idk if being promoted is good for him...hopefully everything works out for Aven cuz if not I won't be sane.

Me when I got his text

YES I'VE SEEN IT GOT ME EMOTIONAL FOR SEVERAL REASONS

First, he's so sweet to us?? I actually think it's pretty in character for him to be nice to us even if the trailblazer was hostile towards him before. He wants to have friends and since he's obviously Not Well mentally he probably thinks it's okay if they're mean as long as they're willing to stay by his side and maintain somewhat friendly relationship with him.

Also I was right all along, he DOES try to spoil people in order for them not to leave him. "That's what friends are for" my ass, I want to kill myself now. Aven wtf. His views on friendship and his self value are still so messed up I feel so bad for him honestly. Well, at least he's learning to be more vulnerable, even if he needs to pretend it's a little game in order to make it more comfortable (and to be less bothersome ig, BUT HE WAS NEVER BOTHERSOME)

(I've chosen the gloves but I still checked the rest of the answers already).

About Ena being the Avgin Goddess. I'm still in denial but I'll trust the prosses 😭 Really hope they'll leave it vague tho

[mewmewpercy]

The Difference Between Furina and the Playable Archons

So first thing is they've all at least been in possession of a gnosis. She never had possession of the hydro gnosis. Venti got his snatched, Zhongli traded his away, Raiden gave it to Yae who traded it to Scara who lost it to Nahida who traded it, and Nahida also traded hers away.

Second thing is more a game thing than a lore thing and it's the glowing hair. All of the archons hair glow when they use their power but with Furina it's her clothes glowing to look like her hair is.

Now for common misconceptions. No Hoyo does not think she's an archon because that would mean disregarding her own lore they wrote. The reason she's in archon arts is because that's how she was introduced to us and it'll keep new players from being spoiled.

It's not the gnosis that grants you rank as archon but it does grant you rank as one of the Seven. So technically none of our playables from the Seven are part of the Seven anymore because they no longer hold their elements gnosis.

Final thing. Yes she's acknowledged for her talent as a leader by the other archons. No that doesn't change anything.

She's praised for her tenacity and strength as a mere human putting on centuries long performance. She's not being called one of the Seven just because they know she pretended to be one.

It's not a bad thing she's human. It makes her story all the more tragic yet empowering to know that despite all her hard work she's still human but recognised and praised by the strongest people in her world. She may not be an archon but she's strong and courageous and deserves the world. Even if I don't give much of a shit for her I can still see why she's beloved by many. She doesn't need to be powerful to be interesting guys.

[rexonalapis]

I miss wrio and I love your thoughts on him. So if it’s alright, could you share your current brain worms on him? Canon/Hc’s are okay :D

When will hoyo let him out of the dungeon😔 I need more quests and events dedicated to him he deserves it!!!

hahaha thanks! well i don't wanna spoil much but let's just say he is more than getting out of hoyojail in 4.7 (allegedly) 😉

i feel like i def write lots oh hcs about him (wrio being scottish, or that he's actually well read, etc etc) but yeah i think he still has great potential to be explored despite the fact that i can't really see his role expands after archon quest (with the exception of maybe a quest in relation to, say, regrator.)

also he seems to uphold some sort of agreement with callas and i feel like the last chance for hoyo to reveal it is by adding it into clorinde's sq/character story.

i have a few thoughts about why he loves tea so much tho. i def think sige 'i am fontaine's esteemed beauty guru' winne would Not want him to drink coffee ofc, but also it's just not as addictive as coffee and i can imagine relying on a caffeinated drink while you used to have to pay for a glass of water wouldnt be a good idea for survival. like ofc he doesn't have to worry about that now. he, if i assume right, could be the richest person in fontaine, but yeah it does become a habit i guess. it's good to constantly keep himself warm while he's living under the sea with a cryo vision without having to worry about upsetting his stomach

(side note my pet peeves is when people make an au where wrio is like a dumb jock because like where did you even get the idea that wriothesley is dumb? he is canonically a self made tech tycoon?? make it make sense???)